What is the process by which proteins are synthesized from the available amino acids?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Protein synthesis. This process involves the formation of proteins from amino acids to support various body functions. Gluconeogenesis (choice A) is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, not protein synthesis. Deamination (choice B) is the removal of an amino group from an amino acid, not the synthesis of proteins. Transamination (choice D) is the transfer of an amino group from one molecule to another, not the direct synthesis of proteins.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the amino group. Amino groups are functional groups found in amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. These groups contain nitrogen and are essential for the structure and function of proteins. The carboxyl group (choice B) contains carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen, while the peptide bond (choice C) is a covalent bond formed between amino acids in a protein chain. The side chain (choice D) refers to the unique chemical structure attached to the central carbon of an amino acid and varies among different amino acids, but it does not specifically contain nitrogen.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: kwashiorkor. Kwashiorkor is a form of protein-energy malnutrition that arises due to a protein-deficient diet. This condition leads to symptoms such as edema, skin lesions, and fatty liver. Choice B, marasmus, is a form of PEM caused by overall malnutrition (protein and calorie deficiency), resulting in severe wasting and muscle loss. Choice C, anemia, is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, not specifically related to protein deficiency. Choice D, beriberi, is a disease caused by thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, not a form of PEM related to protein deficiency.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: water. Water is the main component of blood plasma, interstitial fluid, and intracellular fluid. It plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature, and maintaining cell structure. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while potassium, sodium, and calcium are essential electrolytes found in the body, they are not the main constituents of these fluids as water is.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Catabolism. Catabolism involves the breakdown of body proteins into amino acids to be used as energy when there is an inadequate dietary intake. Choices A and B, deamination and transamination, involve the removal and transfer of amino groups, respectively, but not the breakdown of body proteins. Choice C, transcription, is a process in genetics where DNA is used to create mRNA, not related to breaking down body proteins.